When One Parent Travels
Tips to Help Family Members Adjust
Feb 5, 2008 Laura Block-Stewart
Due to the global marketplace numerous employees, who have families at home, are traveling more often and farther than they have in the past. It can be a trying time for families to get used to the new routine that travel brings. Here is some information to help the family adjust to this way of life.
The Parent at Home
Parenting isn’t always an easy endeavor and when one parent travels for work it can feel as if the burden of child rearing is solely placed on the parent at home. The parent at home may feel overburdened and resentful and may feel envious of the traveling parent for having time for extravagant dinners with colleagues, time to relax, and the opportunity to see new places, etc.
To combat these feelings arrange to take a break before your spouse returns. Ask a neighbor, a family friend, or hire a babysitter to watch the kids. Spend time by yourself or go out with friends and experience something new. Taking a little break for some fun will leave you feeling refreshed. Also, keep busy and do things you wouldn’t normally do when your spouse is home. Have some fun with the kids and time will fly by while you have had some irreplaceable one on one time with the kids.
The Traveling Parent
Although the parent who is traveling may enjoy the work, most prefer to be home. The traveling parent quickly finds traveling for work is not as glamorous as many think it is. The parent misses the conveniences of home and can experience numerous travel delays and upsets that are frustrating beyond belief. The traveling parent also often misses out on many important events in the lives of both their spouse and children.
It is typical for the traveling parent to “check out” the day before travel in preparation for the trip. He or she may also not be “fully home” when returning from the trip- due to many early morning breakfasts, late night dinners, changes in time zones- leaving the parent exhausted when returning home.
To combat these issues, explain to the family you are preparing for the trip before you leave and you need time to do so. Schedule time with the family a few days before you leave so you all can have something fun to remember. While away stay connected to those at home, call daily, send e-mails, and rest and take care of your body so you have energy when you return home. On the first day home, don't plan anything except to relax with the family.
The Kids
No matter what the age of the child is, they will miss the parent who is traveling. Make sure to keep a picture of the traveling parent by the bed and have each child talk with the traveling parent on the phone (and/or e-mail for older children). Together, cross off the days on the calendar until the parent comes home.
When You Are Together
The transition from traveling isn’t always easy for the traveler or for those at home. Upsets can occur from just the simple change of pace. Don't get caught up being upset over little things. Move through the transition as easily as possible and appreciate being together.
Plan activities throughout the year to look forward to. Schedule time for the whole family and couple time. Looking forward to upcoming events during traveling time can ease many of the pressures associated with being apart.
Resources:
The National Business Travel Association
Traveling For Work Isn't Easy For the Family
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